A delegation from the Nigeria Customs Liaison Office in Cotonou, Benin Republic, has visited the Customs Area Controller of Oyo/Osun Area Command, Comptroller Joseph Adelaja.
In a statement made available to newsmen by the Command’s Public Relations Officer, AbdulMalik Akintola on Wednesday in Ibadan, said the delegation was led by Chief Superintendent of Customs (CSC) O.M. Olanrewaju on Tuesday.
Addressing the delegation,the Customs Area Controller,Adelaja,acknowledged the significance of the Liaison Office in strengthening cross-border relations.
Adelaja emphasised that the visit aligned with the policy thrust of the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adeniyi,which was anchored on collaboration, consolidation, and Innovation.
He assured the delegation of the Command’s full support in facilitating their duties and encouraged them to extend similar cooperation by enhancing intelligence sharing.
The Area controller noted that such collaboration is crucial in combating smuggling activities at border stations under the Command’s jurisdiction.
Responding to the Customs Area Controller,Olanrewaju expressed his profound gratitude for the warm reception at the Command’s Operational Headquarters.
He stated that the purpose of their visit was to familiarise themselves with the Command and its border stations.
Olanrewaju further highlighted the core functions of the Nigeria Customs Liaison Office, which include fostering cooperation between the Nigeria Customs Service and the Republic of Benin Customs.
He said it also includes facilitating trade between the two countries, organising bilateral meetings, and enhancing intelligence gathering and sharing between Customs formations at border areas.
Olanrewaju noted that his team’s operational responsibilities cover the Idiroko border, Kwara, and Oyo State borders, emphasizing their commitment to strengthening cooperation in these strategic areas.(End)
